A goatherd or goatherder is a person who herds goats as a vocational activity. It is similar to a shepherd who herds sheep. Goatherds are most commonly found in regions where goat populations are significant; for instance, in Africa and South Asia. Goats are typically bred as dairy or meat animals, with some breeds being shorn for wool. The top six goat industry groups in the United States include: meat (includes show), dairy (includes show, pygmy and Nigerian dwarf), fiber or hair (angora, cashmere), 4-H, industrial (weed control, hiking/pack), and biotech (see Goats in agriculture).[1]

Herding goats in the Apennine Mountains

Companies using goats to control and eradicate leafy spurge, knapweed, and other toxic weeds have sprouted across the American West.[2]

References

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  1. ^ "Breeds of Livestock - Goat Breeds — Breeds of Livestock, Department of Animal Science". www.ansi.okstate.edu. Retrieved 2015-10-18.
  2. ^ "American Pastoral". Brown Alumni Monthly. Sep–Oct 2012.